Cathy Oloffson introducedNormal Public Library Director John Fischer. His experience in public libraries totals more than 20 years, including time at Bloomington Public Library and St. Louis County Library. He joined Normal Public Library in 2013 and has served as director since 2023. In this role, Fischer leads teams responsible for the educational, cultural, informational and recreational resources provided by the library to enrich the quality of life for Normal citizens. A fun fact shared was that our own John Kirk cast him in his first play at ISU!
There are three main pillars of the library:
Collections - The goal is to support children's literacy and reading in the community. Collections includes everything on the shelves and online.
Services - Services like printing, photocopying, WiFi, study spaces, home delivery service, technology help, library cards, and more are available for the community. The NPL also mails library cards to Unit 5 students of Normal each semester.
Programs - Many events for the all ages of the community to engage, interact, and learn. A few notable programs include the Summer Reading Program, lap sits, story times, and stuffed animal sleepovers. Newer events such as picture book club, an unwind sensory-friendly version of tinker crafting, and a sign language & sing are attracting a diverse audience.
A special upcoming event is the Kid Market, on May 2nd 10AM - Noon. Each booth is creatively designed and operated by young vendors, offering a delightful array of handmade crafts, artwork, toys, and other delights for sale. Kids get the chance to showcase their talents, practice money management, and interact with customers in a supportive and fun environment. Please note this will be a cash-only event!
At our meeting, Kiwanians had the opportunity to tour the newly renovated Normal Public Library. After being closed for about 16 months and operating in the temporary space across the street, the library reopened in July 2025. If you haven't stopped by recently, you will need to see the beautiful community space!
Announcements & Volunteer Opportunities
Thank you to all our members that joined IWU and ISU Circle K International at Midwest Food Bank on March 28th!
IWU Circle K: IWU CKI is hosting their annual Trivia Night, SundayApril 19**, 7pm at IWU Hansen Student Center**. **Please note the date and location change from previous communication. They will be collecting nonperishable food items at the event to donate to Midwest Foodbank. Please let Bob Starkovich know if you plan to attend.
Reid Butts: It's almost May! Our annual Mother's Day Flower Sale is coming soon.
Mark your calendars to volunteer (sign up available soon) and pick up annuals for the season! Tuesday 5/5 will be set up at College Hills. The sale will run Wednesday 5/6 -Saturday 5/9 until Noon.
Gift certificates are actively being worked on and hopefully will be available at an upcoming meeting. Signs and posters are available starting this week to advertise our fundraiser!
